Atletico Madrid criticizes referee after defeat to PSG

Atletico players have criticised the referee "for some controversial decisions" in Atletico Madrid's 0-4 defeat to PSG in the opening match of Group B of the 2025 Club World Cup in the early morning of June 16.

Romanian referee Istvan Kovacs shows a yellow card to Giuliano Simeone, son of coach Diego Simeone - Photo: REUTERS

Atletico Madrid were disappointing in their debut match, playing disjointedly and "too violently". They received 7 yellow cards, 1 red card and conceded 4 goals against Champions League champions PSG.

But Atletico Madrid players blamed Romanian referee Istvan Kovacs, believing that he was the reason for their defeat. Midfielder Koke was the first to criticize the referee.

Koke told Bein Sports: "We knew it would be difficult against PSG, but 4-0 is unfair. Atletico Madrid tried to go forward and we had chances. We even scored to make it 1-2, but he (referee Kovacs) denied it.

If he wants to give a penalty, he gives it, if not, he doesn't give it. We all saw what happened, playing with one less man killed us."

Atletico Madrid coach Diego Simeone was also unhappy with the referee, but "refused to comment" stating: "I'm tired of talking about the same repetitive topics regarding refereeing. Otherwise we always look like victims... Atletico Madrid played against a great opponent, they played better than us. But the details are very clear."

QUOC THANG

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/atletico-madrid-chi-trich-trong-tai-sau-tham-bai-truoc-psg-20250616085335371.htm